Copper(II) carbonate facts for kids
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Copper(II) carbonate is a green-blue chemical. You might also hear it called cupric carbonate. It is a chemical compound made of copper and carbonate parts. Its chemical formula is CuCO3.
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What is Copper(II) Carbonate?
Copper(II) carbonate is a solid that looks blue-green. You often see it as part of the green coating on old copper statues or roofs. This green layer forms when copper is exposed to air for a long time. The other part of this coating is copper(II) hydroxide.
This chemical can dissolve in acids. When it does, it creates carbon dioxide gas and a copper salt. If you heat copper(II) carbonate, it breaks down. It turns into copper(II) oxide and also releases carbon dioxide gas.
How is it Made?
Copper(II) carbonate can form naturally when copper(II) hydroxide is left in the air.
People can also make it in a lab. One way is to mix copper sulfate with sodium carbonate. This reaction creates copper(II) carbonate and also leaves sodium sulfate dissolved in the water.
What is it Used For?
Copper(II) carbonate has a few important uses:
- It can be used to kill algae, which are tiny plant-like organisms that can grow in water.
- It is also used as a pigment, which means it gives color to things like paints or dyes.
Is it Safe?
Copper(II) carbonate can irritate your skin if you touch it. It is also toxic if swallowed. This is because it can dissolve in your stomach acid. When it dissolves, it releases copper that your body can absorb, which can be harmful.
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